Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik confirm breakup after two years of dating

Celebrity couple Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik have announced that they have split up after dating for two years. The former couple posted statements of mutual love and respect on social media. Malik is a former member of British boy band One Direction while Hadid, on the other hand, is a model for various top-tier brands such as Victoria’s Secret, Fendi, and Tommy Hilfiger. Neither gave a reason for their breakup.

The 25-year-old Malik said in a statement that he and Hadid had shared an “incredibly meaningful, loving and fun relationship” and that he had a huge admiration for her as a friend. Hadid said on her twitter post that she wished Malik the best for his future and that she is grateful for the ‘love, time and life lessons that Z and I shared.” Zayn went on to add that he wished the news of their breakup had come from them first. He also wants his fans to respect their decision and privacy.

In 2017, Zayn had defended Gigi after many accused her of being racist towards Asians in a video that was posted on Snapchat. Following questions by fans about the video, Zayn replied, "Trust me... she likes Asians ;)".

Hadid and Zayn began dating since 2015 and soon went on to become the most sought-after couple after the duo appeared in a music video for Zayn, titled Pillowtalk, in 2016. The couple went public about their relationship after appearing together at the Met Gala in May 2016. They were also photographed together for the cover of Vogue magazine in August 2017.